But even more so, I hope it will continue to be a publication that propels you to advocate for our work as a Latino arts sector, raises awareness for the issues that impact our field, inspires your work, and promotes your efforts to achieve equity and justice within your home communities. Remember, this is your publication--and know that we welcome your story ideas, announcements and feedback as we continue to honor the important contributions Latino arts and culture make to our world today.

May this holiday season bring you peace and happiness. I hope you enjoy our new issue of e-Boletín.

Maria Lopez De Leon

Executive Director

21st century arts activism and cultural advocacy

The arts' role as a driver of civic engagement and the economy--and as a shaper of culture--has never been more critical for Latinos, and society. A dramatic demographic shift to a younger, browner democracy has caused tense debates around identity and immigration, inequality and the new economy, climate change, and violent policing in communities of color.

NALAC Regional Arts Training Workshops are convened throughout the nation to provide comprehensive professional development, training and a space for community dialogue among the Latino arts field and other diverse arts sectors.

We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Latino artists and scholars who paved the way for new artists today. We honor the below, and remember all those who have died at the hands of injustice.

More than 170 artists and advocates converged on Providence, Rhode Island, for our Regional Arts Training Workshop in October, bringing national arts leaders and the local arts field together for comprehensive capacity building opportunities and community dialogue. "We are a much stronger force than I imagined," declared one participant. Learn why, by experiencing the intergenerational Regional through photos and testimonials.

Apply now to attend the NALAC Leadership Institute

Join us for a rigorous weeklong leadership program that strengthens core capacities in the areas of arts management (including artist and organizational development) as well as building knowledge in the field of Latino artistic expressions, research and policy to prepare creative, strategic and nimble cultural leaders. The dynamic learning environment cultivates a familiar, inclusive cultural space to confidently respond to and initiate solutions to complex cultural questions. Applications are now available online and must be completed by February 26, 2015. Get details

Our three-day intensive, hands-on training that builds advocacy skills and knowledge about the role of government and public institutions in the arts field is April 28-30 in Washington, DC. Applications to the ALI are accepted from all alumni of the NALAC Leadership Institute. Congressional Staff and experienced arts advocates will impart skills to enhance efforts on behalf of Latino arts and culture. Learn more and apply online now

Get a grant to further work in pursuit of social justice

The NALAC Fund for the Arts offers grants to assist US-based Latino artists and arts organizations in the development, creation, presentation and sustainability of artistic excellence. If you are an artist, ensemble or organization that has demonstrated artistic excellence in pursuit of social justice through the arts, apply today. Get details here. Applications will be available online soon.

Strengthen your social networks and collaborate with another community

Artists, collectives and community-based organization in the United States, Mexico and Central America engaged in a continuous and ongoing artistic exchange that supports, preserves and extends the cultural practices between communities in two or more countries can apply for a Transnational Cultural Remittance Grant of up to $20,000 from NALAC. Learn more (applications will be available soon)